Alaqua Animal Refuge’s inaugural Animoré weekend was truly a festival to celebrate the love of animals. Showcasing two epic events — the 6th Annual 100 Point and Cult Wine Dinner and the first ever Barn Jam — the weekend took place October 18 and 19 in Freeport and raised over $1,100,000 to support Alaqua’s Capital Campaign, “Second Chances Start Here,” thanks to a dollar for dollar matching grant of the weekend’s net revenue from the Dugas Family Foundation.
Amongst tropical storm threats, heavy rain and wind, and a last-minute change of venue (due to weather), the 100 Point and Cult Wine Dinner was smashing, breaking previous fundraising records by almost double. A partner and friend of Alaqua, the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center graciously allowed Alaqua to host the wine dinner at their incredible facility, with their awe-inspiring mezzanine serving as the backdrop for the cocktail reception, live painting by artist Velia Lala, and silent auction.
As one of Alaqua’s signature events, the 100 Point and Cult Wine Dinner paired stellar wines with a unique 5-course dinner, expertly prepared and served to over 100 guests. Three of Nashville’s top singer/songwriters—Billy Dawson, Aaron Barker, and Jon Nite—also serenaded guests with an intimate, once-in-a lifetime performance, and shared individual stories about the meaning behind the songs they had written for top recording artists.
Alaqua’s new facility will be a game-changer for their future, and will be the first of its kind in the United States helping Alaqua to transform the shape of animal shelters and sanctuaries around the globe. Their goal reflects the magnitude of this project, and events such as Animoré will help make it a reality. Alaqua’s new home will be a gem for Walton County and Northwest Florida, and a place for all to enjoy for generations to come.
To learn more about Alaqua and their capital campaign, visit www.Alaqua.org.
